The problems being addressed are:

• Obstacles within rivers preventing migratory fish reaching traditional spawning areas (redds). The main rivers of Carmarthenshire have many tributaries which have become clogged with trees, debris and industrial remains over the decades. Surveys by the CRT have revealed their location and a programme of action has been drawn up for their removal. Over 100km of such rivers will be opened up and according to Environment Agency Wales (EAW) conversion ratios this will eventually result in a significant increase in the numbers of migratory fish running up our rivers. In terms of the value of this to the local community, the EAW presently values each salmon at £8,000 and each sea trout at £2,500 per season.

 

• Over the years the acidity in our rivers, especially in the headwaters has increased significantly. Higher acid content impacts on invertebrate existence and reduces food for migratory fish. The causes of the increased acidity are precipitation carried across from industrial neighbours and coniferous forestation. This is a major problem in two major tributaries of the Tywi – the Doethie and the Pysgotwr.

 

• Bank erosion by winter floods and farm animals also impinge on fish welfare in our rivers. Uncontrolled bank side tree-growth reduces light access to rivers further affecting fish life.

To combat these problems directly the ASG 2009 project is delivering  :

 

• Construction of Easements/ small Fish Passes or removal of obstacles/barriers to improve and create fish passage to formerly inaccessible spawning habitat.

 

• Liming of headwaters to reduce acidity and restore invertebrate life and water quality suitable for migratory salmonids.
 

• Collecting information (through surveys) on the ongoing situation on our rivers to facilitate further remedial work

 
• Completion of river habitat restoration – fencing, coppicing, revetment etc. E.g. Nant Myddyfi – Tywi tributary where banks were being severely eroded by farm animals. CRT carried out extensive repair & maintenance to stock proof fencing; water facilities, buffer strips and drinking bays. Here is an example of earlier work done by the CRT on the Myddyfi, a Tywi tributary.

 

Before - excessive bank erosion

 

 

After: Note drinking bay upstream and early re-growth inside fence:

 

• Educational and promotional activities with stakeholders, the local community and tourists - this will include guiding, coaching, work with schools and with the disabled.